As CMP’s prices increase, you may be wondering how you can save some money and reduce your reliance on your local utility company for electricity. A properly designed solar electric system reduce your CMP bill to nearly zero by using energy from the sun to generate free and clean electricity.
How Does a Solar PV System Work?
A solar PV system uses solar panels to produce electricity. PV panels are typically mounted on your home’s roof or on a ground mounted solar array on your property. Solar electric panels produce DC electricity. The DC power produced by the panels is converted to household AC electricity by an inverter system consisting of roof top optimizers and a centralized inverter.
The most common type of solar electric system installed throughout Maine is referred to as a grid-tied solar electric system. With a grid tied solar electric system, your home will use the solar produced electricity first to power any electrical loads running and then draw off of CMP for any additional power that is needed.
Electricity produced by the solar system in excess of your electrical loads will be credited against electricity you buy from the utility during periods of low production or higher consumption. Any excess kWhs that accumulate at the end of a billing period are credited towards months where utility consumption exceeds solar electric production. CMP’s fixed monthly flat delivery charge is billed regardless of solar power produced or credited.
CMP customers are charged only for the “net” power that they use. Excess kWh credits that accumulate at the end of a billing period are credited on a rolling 12-month basis and expire at the end of their 12-month period.
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Does Solar Work in Maine?
One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is, “Does a solar electricity work in Maine?” The answer is simply: yes. The state of Maine receives enough sunlight to make solar both effective and affordable. In fact, Maine receives, on average, 20% more sunlight annually than Germany — the world leader in solar installations.
At Maine Solar Solutions, we find that most of our customers are able to offset 100% of their electricity usage with their solar PV system. Many customers are able to reduce their CMP bill to the fixed minimum monthly delivery and transmission fee.
Solar for Maine Homeowner and Businesses
Maine Solar Solutions takes a consultative approach when working with our customers: Our goal is to provide you with the information that you need to make an informed decision. We will work with you to design and present a solution that meets your budget and your renewable energy goals.
To find out how a solar system will work to power your Maine home, schedule a free solar site assessment with us.
